Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, but it can also be overwhelming if you need help determining where to begin. The timeline for shopping can vary depending on your circumstances, but with the right planning and preparation, finding the perfect dress can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. This guide will help you navigate every step, from setting your budget to knowing when to start shopping and whom to bring along.
Summary
Wedding dress shopping can be exciting but requires careful planning. Start by setting a realistic budget that includes the cost of the dress, alterations, and accessories. Begin shopping 8-12 months before the wedding, but off-the-rack or pre-loved dresses are good options if you’re short on time. Avoid shopping too early, as styles and your body may change. Research your preferred style based on venue, body type, and personal taste, but keep an open mind as bridal stylists may suggest alternatives. Bring a small, trusted group to fittings for honest feedback, and consider hiring a bridal stylist for guidance. Alterations are essential, so budget time and money for them. Avoid common mistakes like buying too early, ignoring the wedding theme, or focusing solely on trends. If in a time crunch, look for sample sales or pre-loved gowns to save time and money.
Set Your Gown Budget
Setting a realistic budget is important before going wedding dress shopping. Wedding dresses can range greatly in price, and it’s essential to establish how much you’re willing to spend before you fall in love with a gown that’s beyond your price range.
- Factor in additional costs: In addition to the cost of the dress itself, remember to account for taxes, alterations, and potential shipping fees. These additional expenses can significantly increase the total price.
- Set aside money for accessories: Allocate 10% to 20% of your budget for shoes, a veil, jewellery, and other accessories to complete your bridal look.
Start Early – When To Begin Dress Shopping
Timing is everything when it comes to wedding dress shopping. A general rule of thumb is to begin shopping about eight to twelve months before your wedding date. This allows plenty of time for research, fittings, and any necessary alterations.
If You’re Getting Married Soon
If your engagement is shorter (for instance, less than six months), don’t panic. You can still find the right gown. Start shopping as soon as possible, and be open to off-the-rack options or dresses that require fewer custom changes.
Avoid Starting Too Early
While it’s tempting to start shopping when you get engaged, buying your dress too early can have downsides. New collections are released regularly, and your style preferences might change over time. Significant body changes over time could also lead to unexpected alterations, potentially adding to your costs.
Research And Define Your Style
Before you head to bridal salons, you must have a clear vision of the style you’re after. Doing your research will save time and help you feel more confident during shopping.
- Use online resources and apps: Plenty of wedding dress guides, online tools, and quizzes are available to help you narrow down your preferences. It can suggest styles based on your answers, recommend designers, and help you locate nearby salons.
- Consider your venue: Your wedding location can heavily influence the type of dress you’ll want. For example, a beach wedding might require a flowy, lightweight gown, while a grand ballroom might suit a formal, structured dress.
- Know your body type: Understanding which silhouettes best complement your body shape can help you feel confident in your decision. This doesn’t mean sticking to rigid rules but being aware of the styles that will highlight your best features.
Keep An Open Mind
Though research is important, don’t be surprised if you fall in love with a dress outside your initial vision. Consult with bridal stylists who have experience matching brides with the perfect gown based on their budget and body type. Often, a professional will recommend a dress you might have yet to consider, which may just be the one.
Whom To Bring To Dress Appointments
When it comes to your shopping entourage, less is more. The key is to bring a small group of trusted individuals who will give honest feedback without overwhelming you with too many opinions. Two to three people are usually an ideal number.
- Close friends or family members: Consider bringing your mum, sister, or best friend—people whose opinions you value and trust.
- Avoid large groups: Too many opinions can make the decision-making process more difficult and confusing, detracting from what should be a fun and exciting experience.
Consider Hiring A Bridal Stylist
A bridal stylist can be a valuable asset in your dress-shopping journey. These professionals do more than help you pick out a dress—they can guide you through the entire process, including fittings, accessories, and alterations. Some stylists even offer services on your wedding day to ensure perfect looks.
- Benefits of a bridal stylist: They bring knowledge about designers, trends, and what will work best for your body and budget. They also help you stay organised, reduce stress, and ensure that everything comes together seamlessly on your wedding day.
The Importance Of Alterations
Once you’ve found your dream dress, it will likely need a few tweaks to achieve the perfect fit. Alterations are essential to the wedding dress shopping process, so budget for them and allow enough time.
- Timing for alterations: You should have your first fitting around two to three months before the wedding. This allows plenty of time for adjustments without feeling rushed.
- What to expect: Most gowns require alterations, whether adjusting the hemline, taking in or letting out seams, or adding custom details like sleeves.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
While dress shopping is fun, there are some common pitfalls to be aware of to avoid unnecessary stress:
- Buying too soon: If you’re getting married more than a year out, wait until you’re closer to the date before purchasing your dress. As mentioned earlier, trends and your body can change, which may lead to additional alterations.
- Not considering your wedding theme: Make sure your dress aligns with the overall theme and formality of your wedding. For example, a ball gown might look out of place at a casual outdoor wedding.
- Focusing only on trends: While it’s tempting to go for the latest styles, remember that your wedding photos will last forever. Choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful and reflects your style, not just current fashion trends.
The Last-Minute Bride: Finding A Dress In A Time Crunch
If you’re planning a wedding with a short timeline, finding a gorgeous dress that suits your style and needs is still possible. Start shopping immediately, and focus on dresses available off the rack or requiring minimal alterations. Many bridal salons also offer sample sales, where you can score a designer dress at a fraction of the cost.
- Quick alterations: Even if you’re short on time, most sewists can handle rush alterations for an additional fee.
- Consider pre-loved gowns: Buying a pre-loved dress is another fantastic option for brides with a tighter schedule and budget.
Finding your perfect wedding dress should be exciting, not stressful. By starting the process early, researching, and bringing along trusted friends or family, you can make the experience enjoyable and fulfilling. Stick to a budget, keep an open mind, and remember that the right dress is out there for you—whether custom-made or hanging on a rack, waiting to try it on.
Conclusion
Wedding dress shopping is a significant and memorable part of your wedding planning journey; with proper preparation, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By setting a clear budget, starting the process early, and keeping an open mind about styles, you can find the perfect gown that reflects your style and fits the theme of your wedding. Surround yourself with trusted support, stay organised, and remember that the most important thing is finding a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. These tips make your wedding dress shopping experience enjoyable and stress-free.
FAQs On Wedding Dress Shopping
When Should I Start Shopping For My Wedding Dress?
Ideally, you should begin shopping for your wedding dress 8 to 12 months before your wedding day. This timeline allows ample time for fittings, alterations, and necessary customisations. However, off-the-rack or pre-loved gowns are good alternatives if your wedding is on a shorter timeline.
How Much Should I Budget For A Wedding Dress?
Your wedding dress budget should include not only the cost of the gown but also taxes, alterations, and accessories like shoes, veils, and jewellery. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 10-20% of your overall dress budget for accessories and potential extra costs.
What Should I Bring To A Dress Appointment?
It’s best to bring a small group of two or three trusted friends or family members whose opinions you value. Also, bring along any undergarments or accessories you plan to wear with the dress and a clear idea of your budget and style preferences.
What Should I Do If I Need A Dress Quickly?
If you’re working with a short timeline, focus on off-the-rack options, sample sales, or pre-loved gowns, which are immediately available. Some bridal salons also offer rush alterations for an additional fee, allowing you to get a custom fit in a shorter time frame.
Do I Need A Bridal Stylist?
While optional, a bridal stylist can be incredibly helpful, especially if you’re overwhelmed. They provide expert advice on styles, designers, and fittings and can help ensure the entire process, including accessories and alterations, runs smoothly. Some stylists even assist on your wedding day to perfect your look.
